Akash
Specifications
| Designation | Akash |
| Also Known As | Akash-NG, Akash Prime |
| Type | Medium-range mobile surface-to-air missile system |
| Manufacturer | DRDO/BEL/BDL |
| Operators | India |
| Length | 5.78 m |
| Diameter | 0.35 m |
| Weight | 720 kg |
| Wingspan | 1.1 m |
| Range | 30 km |
| Speed | Mach 2.5 |
| Max Altitude | 18 km |
| Guidance | Command guidance with terminal active radar (Akash-NG has active seeker) |
| Warhead | 55 kg directional fragmentation with proximity fuse |
| Propulsion | Ramjet propulsion |
| First Tested | 1990 |
| First Deployed | 2014 |
| Unit Cost | ~$500K per missile / $500M per battery |
Overview
The Akash missile system is India's first indigenous medium-range surface-to-air missile system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). The system is designed to provide air defense capabilities to the Indian Army and Air Force, and has been deployed along the India-Pakistan and India-China borders. The Akash system has undergone significant upgrades, including the development of the Akash-NG and Akash Prime variants, which have improved its performance and capabilities.
Development History
The development of the Akash missile system began in the 1980s, as part of India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. The system was designed to provide a medium-range air defense capability, with a range of 30 km and a speed of Mach 2.5. The Akash system underwent extensive testing and evaluation, including flight trials and user trials, before being inducted into service in 2014. The Akash-NG and Akash Prime variants were developed to address the limitations of the original Akash system, including its range and guidance system.
Technical Deep Dive
The Akash missile system consists of a launcher, a command center, and a radar system. The launcher is a self-propelled, wheeled vehicle that can carry up to four missiles. The command center is responsible for tracking and engaging targets, using a combination of radar and command guidance. The radar system is a phased array radar, which provides 3D tracking and guidance to the missiles. The Akash-NG and Akash Prime variants have improved the system's performance, with the addition of an active seeker and improved propulsion systems.
Combat Record
Tactical Role
The Akash missile system plays a critical role in providing air defense capabilities to the Indian Army and Air Force. The system is designed to engage aerial targets, including aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), at medium ranges. The Akash system can be used in a variety of tactical scenarios, including air defense of critical infrastructure, protection of ground forces, and support of air operations.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Variants
| Variant | Differences | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Akash-NG | Improved propulsion system, active seeker, and enhanced performance | Operational |
| Akash Prime | Further improvements to the Akash-NG variant, including enhanced range and performance | Operational |
| Akash Mk1 | Original variant, with command guidance and ramjet propulsion | Limited Deployment |
Countermeasures
Adversaries can counter the Akash system using electronic countermeasures, such as jamming the radar and command center. Additionally, the use of decoys and chaff can saturate the system's radar and command center, limiting its effectiveness. The Akash system's vulnerability to electronic countermeasures can be mitigated through the use of frequency-hopping and other counter-countermeasures.
Analysis
Conflict Impact
The Akash missile system has significant implications for the conflict between India and Pakistan, as well as India and China. The system's air defense capabilities can deter aerial attacks and provide a strong defense against enemy aircraft and UAVs. The Akash system's effectiveness in engaging aerial targets can also limit the enemy's ability to conduct air operations, providing a significant advantage to Indian forces.
Future Outlook
The Akash missile system is expected to continue to play a critical role in India's air defense capabilities, with ongoing development and modernization efforts aimed at improving its performance and effectiveness. The Akash-NG and Akash Prime variants are expected to be deployed in larger numbers, providing enhanced air defense capabilities to the Indian Army and Air Force.
Analyst Assessment
The Akash missile system is a significant asset for the Indian military, providing critical air defense capabilities and enhancing the country's defense posture. The system's effectiveness in engaging aerial targets and its ability to deter aerial attacks make it a valuable component of India's defense strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the range of the Akash missile system?
The Akash missile system has a range of 30 km. The Akash-NG and Akash Prime variants have improved ranges, but the exact range is classified.
What is the speed of the Akash missile?
The Akash missile has a speed of Mach 2.5. The Akash-NG and Akash Prime variants have improved propulsion systems, which provide enhanced speed and performance.
What is the guidance system used by the Akash missile?
The Akash missile uses command guidance with terminal active radar. The Akash-NG and Akash Prime variants use active seekers, which provide improved guidance and accuracy.
What is the warhead used by the Akash missile?
The Akash missile uses a 55 kg directional fragmentation warhead with a proximity fuse. The warhead is designed to engage aerial targets, including aircraft and UAVs.
What are the variants of the Akash missile system?
The Akash missile system has several variants, including the Akash-NG and Akash Prime. The Akash-NG variant has improved propulsion and guidance systems, while the Akash Prime variant has further improvements to range and performance.